Turtle Island: Unearthing Truth and Reconciliation

The way many Canadians speak of Canada is often a misconstrued tale of willingly surrendered land, but the truth revolves around a history of stolen land and resistance. This misperception is just the tip of the iceberg in a sea of historical inaccuracies many have yet to confront.

Reflect back to 2020—a year already heavy with the global pandemic and the resonant echoes of George Floyd’s call for justice. Amidst this backdrop, Canada faced its own moment of reckoning with the grim discovery of 215 unmarked graves at a residential school in British Columbia. This revelation punctured the image of a compassionate Canada and prompted the establishment of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Initially, the day was marked by hurried gestures of acknowledgment, with organizations and individuals scrambling to make sense of this new day of reflection, often without deep engagement or understanding.

Three years on, as we observe National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, it’s crucial to assess not just the awareness raised but also the depth of our understanding. Many still remain unaware of the significance behind the 94 Calls to Action, Orange Shirt Day, or the true nature of residential schools—far from places of education, these were sites of systemic abuse and cultural eradication. How far have we come in addressing these truths?

Amidst these harsh realities, it’s equally important to celebrate the resilience, joy, and cultural richness of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nations, who continue to thrive against all odds. Their enduring spirit and community strength are central to the narrative of reconciliation and healing.

But what about allyship? True allyship requires a commitment to learning, action, and walking alongside Indigenous Nations. It goes beyond performative gestures and into real support for Indigenous-led initiatives and the implementation of the 94 Calls to Action.

At Diversity Nexus, we design workshops that recount historical grievances and explore pathways toward healing. We aim to include Indigenous cultures and histories in conversations about justice and fairness, encouraging genuine understanding of these important issues.